Solar Specialist needed on South Coast

[ColHold]

I've purchased a Sprinter converted to a campervan advertised as 'off-grid' fitted.
But, I'm unhappy with the standards of both the solar installation and the 12V wiring/accessories. I'm looking to find a qualified expert who, for a fee, will come to Milford on Sea, examine the vehicle and make a written report on their findings. I expect that the initial visit will not be until January or early February.
Someone with an academic background would be ideal and some history of fitting out commercial van conversions highly desirable. The commission could suit someone who is retired after a relevant work background.
If you post a reply, please give only contact details, email or phone, so that the position may be explored in a 1:1 environment.

 

[Lenny HB]

OK I got me Saturdays muddled up.

Well the wiring is a bit of a mess what looks like a uninsulated positive busbar is not good.
They have used good quality Victron equipment.

Obvisly DIY conversion so I don't see anything that can't be sorted out easily I don't really think you have a case.

Only thing to complain about is only one solar panel when you were told it had two. You cold ask for a couple of hundred back but panels are so cheap now probably easier not to bother and just fit another one yourself.

Quite normal just to have a voltage reading for state of battery that is what most commercial builds do.

Looks like it has a lithium battery the only way to get an accurate reading of the state of the battery is to fit a shunt, either a Victron Smart Shunt or a BMV712.
Apart from expensive vans like Morelo starting at around £250k you won't see shunts fitted in vans as standard.

If I was buying that van I would just think wiring needs sorting out, no problem. I think you are expecting too much when buying a self convertion.

 

[The Wino]

For Lenny's benefit, I attach a photo of the solar installation. There is no way to assess whether it's using or drawing power, just a reading of the battery voltage. Several days of experimenting indicates that the solar charging doesn't work. I was told that there are two solar panels on the roof but in fact, there's only one. I saw the vehicle parked on the highway and had no ladder and the van's almost 9 feet tall. So, I was comforted by getting a three-month warranty and naive enough the believe the seller.

A lot of good ideas have come; thank you all.

Incidentally, my initial post was on Saturday 16th. I can't make that a week ago!

View attachment 845510

Looks like it's not the neatest in the world but several components that aren't the cheapest by any means. I don't know where the other company that gave an estimate of £1600 to tidy it up got that figure from. Did they actually say what they meant by off grid equipped it could mean anything from being able to have just led lights to a full system and run kettle's hairdryers toasters etc. What batteries does it have.

 

[Nanniemate]

OK I got me Saturdays muddled up.

Well the wiring is a bit of a mess what looks like a uninsulated positive busbar is not good.
They have used good quality Victron equipment.

Obvisly DIY conversion so I don't see anything that can't be sorted out easily I don't really think you have a case.

Only thing to complain about is only one solar panel when you were told it had two. You cold ask for a couple of hundred back but panels are so cheap now probably easier not to bother and just fit another one yourself.

Quite normal just to have a voltage reading for state of battery that is what most commercial builds do.

Looks like it has a lithium battery the only way to get an accurate reading of the state of the battery is to fit a shunt, either a Victron Smart Shunt or a BMV712.
Apart from expensive vans like Morelo starting at around £250k you won't see shunts fitted in vans as standard.

If I was buying that van I would just think wiring needs sorting out, no problem. I think you are expecting too much when buying a self convertion.

Lenny HB
Is very clever and knows about these things me leccy and gas are magic to me. Is it a professional conversion or a self build.
If I'd see all them there wires I'd be worried, but on the other had nothing is hidden so you can see clearly how it's fitted.
As said by others you do need to get it insured and as for road tax you can do it monthly so only about £27 to relocate it. Then sorn it you will pay for the whole month and 2 if you don't sorn the last day of the month but you can take it to experts
Where I live loads of helpful funsters who are brilliant but if it's specialist I'm travelling 2.5 hours on average resting in recommendation for funster family.

If you don't know you need someone trustworthy who does. But you will need to be proactive and once its sorted you can enjoy your adventures

 

[Just smiffy]

I’ve seen worse and mine isn’t far off…

Controller is on float so it’s working as it should….

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[MichaelT]

OK I got me Saturdays muddled up.

Well the wiring is a bit of a mess what looks like a uninsulated positive busbar is not good.
They have

Only thing to complain about is only one solar panel when you were told it had two. You cold ask for a couple of hundred back but panels are so cheap now probably easier not to bother and just fit another one yourself.

Or one has blown off

 

[PeterCarole29]

I can see the OP is concerned /worried and has admitted he was to trusting overlooked things and was confident if something was wrong would be put right. Has basiccally been conned ,not a nice feeling and is angree .The harm has been done.
I can see the wiring is bad . The live bus bar for instance wires not in sleeving that not double insulated . This is only one area whats the rest of the van like. I can see why the company quoted so much to start agin as they probably charge £100 per hr

Take the advice of others get insurance it tax it take it to the people that can help you achieve what you want

 

[Lenny HB]

Or one has blown off

If fitted to the same standard as the wiring quite lightly.

It happened to Garry Just smiffy driving his van home after buying, he didn't complain about it he just fitted new panels.

 

[Lenny HB]

Has basiccally been conned ,not a nice feeling and is angree .

I don't think he has been conned he bought a DIY conversion, the bloke who did the wiring was probably quite proud of it.
If buying a DIY conversion very few are to a professional standard so you need to be diligent and also prepared to put a few things right.
It's not the end of the world, a couple of hours work, replace a few cables and connectors job done.

 

[headlight]

For Lenny's benefit, I attach a photo of the solar installation. There is no way to assess whether it's using or drawing power, just a reading of the battery voltage. Several days of experimenting indicates that the solar charging doesn't work. I was told that there are two solar panels on the roof but in fact, there's only one. I saw the vehicle parked on the highway and had no ladder and the van's almost 9 feet tall. So, I was comforted by getting a three-month warranty and naive enough the believe the seller.

A lot of good ideas have come; thank you all.

Incidentally, my initial post was on Saturday 16th. I can't make that a week ago!

View attachment 845510

Firstly solar will do very little this time of year so I am not quite sure what your expectations are.
Secondly the battery is on float.
Unless you are charging the battery by another means then that means the solar is in fact working.
Also as your MPPT is a Victron smart solar unit you just need to download the free app and it will tell you what the solar is doing.

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[Coolcats]

I don't think he has been conned he bought a DIY conversion, the bloke who did the wiring was probably quite proud of it.
If buying a DIY conversion very few are to a professional standard so you need to be diligent and also prepared to put a few things right.
It's not the end of the world, a couple of hours work, replace a few cables and connectors job done.

I think it is reasonable as you say just to get the wiring tided it may be difficult in any small claims to get a remedy as you have pointed out it’s a DIY conversion and with any such purchase there has to be some onus on the purchaser to check they are happy ( I know it’s a harsh comment) but suspect somewhere in the sales process it would have been sold as seen.

 

[ColHold]

I have to make it clear that my problems with the van are greater than as already identified. I've just focussed on a couple of easy ones. If the electrics worked properly I would tidy and clip the cables, but, I'm scared that if remedial work is started its extent and cost might copy the pattern of HS2's, For example, when the mains lead is plugged in, the van's or the house-mains RCDs trip after a brief period, there might be a failure in one of the Vitron units. I was told that everything worked properly or if not would be made to work, Neither assurance is true.

It's all a real shame. There are lots of other, mainly minor, issues but the carpentry of the conversion is super.

 

[Raul]

Or you could have the wrong type of rcd. The victron items are DC negative grounded to the chassis/case. If you bond this chassis to earth, make sure you have a type B at least rcd.

 

[headlight]

I have to make it clear that my problems with the van are greater than as already identified. I've just focussed on a couple of easy ones. If the electrics worked properly I would tidy and clip the cables, but, I'm scared that if remedial work is started its extent and cost might copy the pattern of HS2's, For example, when the mains lead is plugged in, the van's or the house-mains RCDs trip after a brief period, there might be a failure in one of the Vitron units. I was told that everything worked properly or if not would be made to work, Neither assurance is true.

It's all a real shame. There are lots of other, mainly minor, issues but the carpentry of the conversion is super.

I don't know about the other problems you are now mentioning but you said that the solar doesn't work but your picture clearly shows your Victron MPPT having a green light on where it says float.
This means that the leisure battery is fully charged and unless you are using another method of charging then solar is maintaining the battery at float voltage so solar is working.

 

[ColHold]

Thank you for the continued comments, I appreciate the generous help.

I guess that one of my problems is that I've no instructions on how the solar system runs and zero experience as a user. No relevant paperwork came with the van and it's only when reading these posts that I've realised that the 'float' light is a positive feature.p I have had the mains supply plugged in because not knowing if the solar panel was keeping the batteries charged, I was scared of battery damage if they were left flat. Sadly, I've also seen a 'fault' light and on some occasions, the van' or house's RCDs have tripped out when the hook-up lead is connected. I've looked on the internet at the Victron site and found a document that was too long (61 pages), and too technical for me. Revisiting the scene today I think that I have discovered something better but I've no idea as to the controller's settings and I need an idiot's guide on what to do if there are problems. If any members have one ( user manual or similar) and are prepared to scan it or me, that might help but my confidence in the van has slipped and I've now none left in those who sold it to me.

Part of the purchase agreement was that the Sprinter would be re-registered as a campervan. I was deceived in understanding that this had been done, kept away from pages 1 and 2 of the V5 and when I realised that it was still seen as a light goods vehicle the seller tried to justify his position by saying that DVLA stated 'it 'was approved as being converted to a motorhome'. It's unlikely that this was true and I understand from elsewhere that DVLA's practice might have changed - but I see that its website has not!

There are still several weeks until the three-month warranty runs out and just case there's a change in heart I'm not going to commit money to the problem 'til then.

Colin

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[headlight]

Thank you for the continued comments, I appreciate the generous help.

I guess that one of my problems is that I've no instructions on how the solar system runs and zero experience as a user. No relevant paperwork came with the van and it's only when reading these posts that I've realised that the 'float' light is a positive feature.p I have had the mains supply plugged in because not knowing if the solar panel was keeping the batteries charged, I was scared of battery damage if they were left flat. Sadly, I've also seen a 'fault' light and on some occasions, the van' or house's RCDs have tripped out when the hook-up lead is connected. I've looked on the internet at the Victron site and found a document that was too long (61 pages), and too technical for me. Revisiting the scene today I think that I have discovered something better but I've no idea as to the controller's settings and I need an idiot's guide on what to do if there are problems. If any members have one ( user manual or similar) and are prepared to scan it or me, that might help but my confidence in the van has slipped and I've now none left in those who sold it to me.

Part of the purchase agreement was that the Sprinter would be re-registered as a campervan. I was deceived in understanding that this had been done, kept away from pages 1 and 2 of the V5 and when I realised that it was still seen as a light goods vehicle the seller tried to justify his position by saying that DVLA stated 'it 'was approved as being converted to a motorhome'. It's unlikely that this was true and I understand from elsewhere that DVLA's practice might have changed - but I see that its website has not!

There are still several weeks until the three-month warranty runs out and just case there's a change in heart I'm not going to commit money to the problem 'til then.

Colin

Go on the app store and download the Victron smart solar app, its free.
Once installed you can see exactly what your solar is doing and also the state of charge of your leisure battery.

 

[Raul]

Also you can download any manuals from Victron.com, so you can read about your equipment.
As far as V5, we have a self conversion, notified dvla, and it’s a van with windows PLG.
Nothing will change that to a motorhome, unless dvla ease the rules.
RCD tripping, needs to be looked at, any electrician with some test equipment can find the fault, it can be even the cable you use to hook up.

 

[Just smiffy]

Thank you for the continued comments, I appreciate the generous help.

I guess that one of my problems is that I've no instructions on how the solar system runs and zero experience as a user. No relevant paperwork came with the van and it's only when reading these posts that I've realised that the 'float' light is a positive feature.p I have had the mains supply plugged in because not knowing if the solar panel was keeping the batteries charged, I was scared of battery damage if they were left flat. Sadly, I've also seen a 'fault' light and on some occasions, the van' or house's RCDs have tripped out when the hook-up lead is connected. I've looked on the internet at the Victron site and found a document that was too long (61 pages), and too technical for me. Revisiting the scene today I think that I have discovered something better but I've no idea as to the controller's settings and I need an idiot's guide on what to do if there are problems. If any members have one ( user manual or similar) and are prepared to scan it or me, that might help but my confidence in the van has slipped and I've now none left in those who sold it to me.

Part of the purchase agreement was that the Sprinter would be re-registered as a campervan. I was deceived in understanding that this had been done, kept away from pages 1 and 2 of the V5 and when I realised that it was still seen as a light goods vehicle the seller tried to justify his position by saying that DVLA stated 'it 'was approved as being converted to a motorhome'. It's unlikely that this was true and I understand from elsewhere that DVLA's practice might have changed - but I see that its website has not!

There are still several weeks until the three-month warranty runs out and just case there's a change in heart I'm not going to commit money to the problem 'til then.

Colin

I think you should post a load of pictures of the van on here and you will get some honest answers, you are sort of skirting around some questions but if you give more details with pictures you will learn a lot more then you know now, it may or may not help your case but you will get information on what needs to be done and at what costs, I can’t help but feel that the second firm who quoted you a lot of money to put it right may have their own agenda as like many have said it sounds a lots of money to “put it right”

You could save your self a lot of money and more importantly, a lot of grief….

 

[Lenny HB]

The mains fault is probably easy to fix wouldn't worry me but I know what I'm doing.

You say the cabinet work is superb so I think you like van I really don't see the electrical problems as insurmountable.

As for registration you should be able to get it changed to "van with windows" which is what most self builds are registered as now.

 

[Coolcats]

Thank you for the continued comments, I appreciate the generous help.

I guess that one of my problems is that I've no instructions on how the solar system runs and zero experience as a user. No relevant paperwork came with the van and it's only when reading these posts that I've realised that the 'float' light is a positive feature.p I have had the mains supply plugged in because not knowing if the solar panel was keeping the batteries charged, I was scared of battery damage if they were left flat. Sadly, I've also seen a 'fault' light and on some occasions, the van' or house's RCDs have tripped out when the hook-up lead is connected. I've looked on the internet at the Victron site and found a document that was too long (61 pages), and too technical for me. Revisiting the scene today I think that I have discovered something better but I've no idea as to the controller's settings and I need an idiot's guide on what to do if there are problems. If any members have one ( user manual or similar) and are prepared to scan it or me, that might help but my confidence in the van has slipped and I've now none left in those who sold it to me.

Part of the purchase agreement was that the Sprinter would be re-registered as a campervan. I was deceived in understanding that this had been done, kept away from pages 1 and 2 of the V5 and when I realised that it was still seen as a light goods vehicle the seller tried to justify his position by saying that DVLA stated 'it 'was approved as being converted to a motorhome'. It's unlikely that this was true and I understand from elsewhere that DVLA's practice might have changed - but I see that its website has not!

There are still several weeks until the three-month warranty runs out and just case there's a change in heart I'm not going to commit money to the problem 'til then.

Colin

just to say I am not encouraging you to take action but in case you want to, the consumer act is fairly robust. Have a read of the misleading and aggressive commercial practices. It helped me in the past.

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5b3b62f7e5274a6ff156b59a/misleading-aggressive-commercial-practices-guidance.pdf

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[CAB96]

You'll likely never get it registered as a campervan.

DVLA changed their policy in 2019. 'Van with windows' is the best you will get.

It doesn't matter, all the insurance companies are up to speed on it.

There is a 50+ page (locked) thread on the T6forum and lots on here if you want to research further.

If the V5 says 'Van with windows' and it has the correct number of belted seats, then it is as correct as it will ever be.

I can't comment on what the convertor told you, they were talking b****x.

 

[ColHold]

Thank you, Yes - I've had a lot of lies. The vehicle's V5 description is 'light goods vehicle'. I'll have a look at the post you've cited.

 

[Coolcats]

You'll likely never get it registered as a campervan.

DVLA changed their policy in 2019. 'Van with windows' is the best you will get.

It doesn't matter, all the insurance companies are up to speed on it.

There is a 50+ page (locked) thread on the T6forum and lots on here if you want to research further.

If the V5 says 'Van with windows' and it has the correct number of belted seats, then it is as correct as it will ever be.

I can't comment on what the convertor told you, they were talking b****x.

Thank you, Yes - I've had a lot of lies. The vehicle's V5 description is 'light goods vehicle'. I'll have a look at the post you've cited.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publi...van/converting-a-vehicle-into-a-motor-caravan

Converting a vehicle into a motor caravan (motor home)

What DVLA expects to see when considering your application to change the body type description on your V5C registration certificate (log book) to motor caravan.

www.gov.uk

DVLA Campervan Conversion Rules: The Ultimate Guide

Discover the essential DVLA Campervan Conversion Rules in this comprehensive guide to ensure a safe, compliant, and enjoyable campervan experience.

campervibes.co.uk

 

[CAB96]

https://www.gov.uk/government/publi...van/converting-a-vehicle-into-a-motor-caravan

Converting a vehicle into a motor caravan (motor home)

What DVLA expects to see when considering your application to change the body type description on your V5C registration certificate (log book) to motor caravan.

www.gov.uk

DVLA Campervan Conversion Rules: The Ultimate Guide

Discover the essential DVLA Campervan Conversion Rules in this comprehensive guide to ensure a safe, compliant, and enjoyable campervan experience.

campervibes.co.uk

At the risk of derailing the OP's post:

1. The DVLA do not follow their own guidance. Research it, there are a few who have maznaged with extreme persistence and MP's help, but self convertors in general have no chance. Even 50yr established convertors like Leisuredrive can't get them reregistered. DVLA say the V5 should reflect the 'appearance in traffic', and looking like a campervan is apparently not enough to get reregistered as a motor caravan.

2. Either that blog post is 2019 or earlier, or they haven't done their research.

And as for changing the tax, how? No way will you get N1 changed to M1. Who's heard of that happening? As far as I know, it just can't be done, except in very rare cases where the original registration was mistaken.